We are quickly approaching a day that for many people is filled with expectations.  Some of our expectations are realistic and some are not so realistic.  Although I have high expectations for myself, I work hard at not forcing those expectations on others.  It is not that I set the bar low for others; but when I don’t have preconceived expectations, I find myself grateful and able to enjoy the moment. Clearly, there are commitments, job requirements, etc, where a level of expectation is necessary.  However, I am writing about daily preconceived expectations.    My expectations of my husband were…

So often I stumble over the question, do I go to the hospital to visit someone who is sick?   Every case is different, there are no rules, and there are so many variables in the equation of “to visit or not to visit” someone who is in the hospital.  For me, I usually ask myself three questions:  Am I following the patient’s request?  Am I supporting the family or caregiver?  Have I prayed for the right opportunity to bless the patient or family? Am I following the patient’s request? There have been numerous times in my life when…

Our actions immediately give first impressions to all those around us.   Recently after a soccer game, I saw a coach walk off the field over to a group of parents. Before he spoke to the group he looked around four times making sure nobody was around to overhear what he was about to say.  The look on his face made him guilty before he even opened his mouth.  He was giddy with excitement over what he was about to tell the parents.  It was unfortunate for him that he didn’t know one of the club’s major supporters was…

Just like cutting down a tree, once your words are spoken or your actions are seen, they can’t be taken back.  You can be forgiven, but the words will always have been said, and the actions will have been seen.   Most of the time I am very careful about how I answer or respond to someone.  Particularly if I am aware the person is uncomfortable or difficult.  I don’t rush to react or feel pressure to respond.  There are those times when I am caught off guard and say or do something I regret.  It is during those…